Purpose isn’t optional

Dear Friends,

Welcome to this month’s newsletter.

This time, I want to introduce another conversation from Live Longer Better, where we explore a deeply human driver of healthy ageing: purpose.

Research from so-called Blue Zones, particularly in Japan, has highlighted the importance of what is known as ikigai, a sense of purpose that connects us to others (because the purpose is not to further one’s interests but to help others). This is analysed in Camilla Cavendish’s book Extra Time  where she translates ikigai as a reason for being.

Increasingly, the evidence suggests that this sense of purpose is associated with a reduced risk of dementia. What matters may not only be purpose itself, but what it leads to: greater interaction, challenge, and engagement.

This becomes especially important after what is traditionally called retirement. Rather than a period of decline, this stage can be seen as a Renaissance, a time to begin new activities, contribute in different ways, and reshape identity. Many people now move through multiple phases of life, with opportunities to volunteer, mentor, start businesses, or take on new roles.

Purpose also has practical effects. When people feel needed, they are more likely to stay active, leave the house, and engage with others. This reduces isolation and supports both mental and physical health.

If we want to live longer better, we should not think of purpose as optional. It is a powerful driver of behaviour, helping to keep both body and brain active as we age.

Warm regards,
Sir Muir Gray